Publisher's Weekly Review
Though the concept of drinking in the morning is hardly a new idea (the first mention of the cocktail in 1803 referred to a beverage drunk at 11a.m.), Joseph takes daytime tippling very seriously. Here, the pop culture writer presents over 100 recipes for morning, noon, and afternoon drinks, as well as a smattering of dishes to enjoy with a beverage. Joseph devotes plenty of attention to brunch classics like the Mimosa and the Bellini, and provides ideas for variations, as in his Geisha Whirl, which substitutes soy sauce and wasabi for a Bloody Mary's Worcestershire and horseradish. But the true stars are cocktails like the Corpse Reviver Number 2, which features absinthe and gin; the sweet and bubbly French 75; and the triple wallop of rum, gin, and brandy in the aptly named Fog-Cutter. Hardcore cocktailers will appreciate tips on creating infusions, syrups, and other ingredients, while entertainers will find a handful of brunch suggestions (e.g., Eggs Benedict and Chocolate Chip and Bacon Pancakes). Joseph even goes so far as to merge the two: the Kilrain Fight uses Cocoa Puffs cereal to infuse steeped black tea that's then mixed with Irish whiskey, lemon, orgeat, and mint. Given the range of recipes here, hosts and guests alike will be happily measuring out mornings and afternoons with coffee spoons and cocktail stirrers. Photos. (Sept.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
Library Journal Review
Journalist and book editor Joseph here presents a thorough and enticing collection of beverage recipes. Almost every imaginable form of alcoholic beverage is included, and combinations range from the traditional to the distinctive. There are lots of helpful tips on preparing the mixers and syrups used in some of the recipes (e.g., homemade V8, simple syrup, and whipped egg whites). Drinks range from variations on a Bloody Mary to gin combinations like the Pink Lady to lesser-known beverages, e.g., Papa's Twinkle (champagne, rum, and maraschino liqueur with grapefruit and lime juice). Joseph includes food recipes as well, mostly for brunch--appropriate egg dishes. VERDICT It's great to have a new take on brunch drinks, and Joseph includes plenty of recipes for novices as well as more elaborate and original cocktails. Anyone interested in including alcoholic beverages in daytime entertaining will appreciate this book.-Elizabeth Rogers, CEF Lib. Syst., Plattsburgh, NY (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
